Music is medicine. Attending gigs when you have a disability is not always easy, but there is nothing better than seeing your favourite band or artist live. I have been going to gigs for nearly 30 years. But I have spoken to so many disabled people who have never been to see a live performance, fearing it will not be accessible for them. This is so upsetting because it means they are missing out on amazing experiences. This needs to change.
In 2025, I did a project, AAA101, to highlight accessibility at live events by visiting 101 different venues, documenting everything from buying tickets to getting there, facilities, atmosphere and, most importantly, the view! I had so many positive experiences. Highlights include Guns n' Roses at Wembley, Iron Maiden at London Stadium and Pitbull at Co-op Live, Manchester. The Utilita Arena Newcastle is a great venue and due to the success last year, the Mercury Prize will be hosted there again this year. Many of the smaller venues I've visited are getting it right, such as The Grove in Newcastle, the Manchester Academy venues and Islington Assembly Hall.
But not all venues are accessible - I have had bad experiences, too. I've been in places with accessible areas at the side of the stage behind the speakers, or with an accessible toilet in another building! Other venues have specific wheelchair spaces booked by people who are not wheelchair users. I've missed gigs as I couldn't get into the building.
Buying tickets for events can be really stressful for several reasons: pricing, limited accessible seating or wheelchair spaces, and figuring out how to buy accessible tickets. You need to do your research. If there is a high-profile show you want to go to, you need to be quick to get tickets as demand will be high. Most venues require proof of disability, such as a copy of your PIP award or Nimbus card.
The long and winding road
I work with venues to help improve their access. I want to raise awareness and make a difference in the industry. Small changes, like clear access information on websites, sensory packs on site, dedicated access staff and awareness can go a long way. Venues and ticket providers also need to work together to simplify accessible ticketing.
Going to gigs is an amazing experience and should be accessible to everyone! I will continue AAA101 and add more venues this year. You can follow me on Instagram at @wheelie.rocking.pink and @rolling_n_rocking, and reach out if you have any questions.
FIVE MUSIC VENUES WITH GREAT ACCESS
Damian's pick of stadiums and arenas with gigs this summer and autumn
The Piece Hall, Halifax
★Probably the most scenic views and backdrops you will find!
★They have over 30 gigs this summer, including Madness (Jun), Tom Grennan, CMAT (Jul), and Scissor Sisters (Aug).
★Tickets are booked via Ticketmaster. Carers/PA tickets are available.
★The venue has no parking but there is plenty of on-street parking and disabled bays nearby.
★Changing places toilet? No.
★For more information go to the The Piece Hall website.
Co-op Live, Manchester
★The newest and largest arena in the UK.
★Some of the biggest names in music, including, Def Leppard (Jul), A$AP Rocky, Andre Rieu (Sep) and Westlife (Oct).
★Blue Badge parking is pre-booked online and costs £25.
★The arena is on the fully accessible Manchester tram network.
★Changing places toilet? Yes (2).
★Wheelchair spaces and accessible seating on all levels, plus an access platform in the standing floor area for some shows.
★Tickets can be booked via Ticketmaster, and they offer a carer/PA ticket.
★For more information go to the Co-op Live website.
Wembley Stadium, London
★The stadium hosts amazing artists every summer: 2026 includes Harry Styles (Jun/Jul), Luke Combs (Jul/Aug) and Bon Jovi (Sep).
★Accessible bookings are made via a dedicated telephone line, 0800 093 0824, which can result in long queues.
★Nimbus/access card required.
★Wheelchair spaces and accessible seating are available on most levels right around the stadium.
★Changing places toilet? Yes (3).
★Blue Badge parking can be pre-booked (chargeable).
★Good public transport links, including TfL Underground. Complimentary accessible shuttle bus service from the stadium to Wembley Park station.
★For more information go to the Wembley Stadium website.
Murrayfield, Edinburgh
★The stadium hosts gigs throughout the summer. This year, they include Zach Bryan (Jun), Luke Combs (Jul) and Bon Jovi (Aug).
★Tickets are booked via Ticketmaster. Carers/PA tickets are available.
★There is an access platform at the opposite end of the pitch to the stage with in-seat bar service.
★Changing places toilet? Yes.
★Blue Badge parking is available on-site but has to be pre-booked.
★ For more information for to the Murrayfield Experience website.
Anfield, Liverpool
★This football ground is hosting concerts including Zach Bryan and Foo Fighters (Jun).
★Changing places toilet? Yes (2). Chargeable Blue Badge parking is available to book close to the stadium.
★Carers/PA tickets are available.
★Access booking must be made by calling the access telephone line: 0151 264 2500. There are wheelchair spaces and accessible seating in various areas of the stadium.
★ For more information go to L.F.C events website.
Photos: Courtesy of Damian Weatherald
